The annual Dorking Gala Night is nearly upon us and it is expected to be the "biggest ever" according to organisers.

The popular event, which will attract around 6,000 people, starts at 6pm on Thursday, December 7 and will see the return of the snow machine which last year turned South Street into a winter wonderland.

Reindeer are also returning to Dorking for their traditional yearly visit, while there will also be fairground rides in St Martin's Walk, Father Christmas's grotto in South Street Gardens, live music and entertainment from Dorking Halls' Sleeping Beauty pantomime cast, performances from the popular fire performer and free face painting.

Shops and restaurants around the area will welcome shoppers throughout the night while local Morris Dancers and The Rampant Roosters will provide entertainment for all ages.

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There will also be music from a band at The Priory CofE School, Greensand, the Loud and Proud choir and Coldharbour Village Band. St Martin's Church is hosting a living Nativity scene.

The community event, run jointly by Mole Valley District Council (MVDC), Dorking's Chamber of Commerce and Dorking Town Partnership, will see parts of the High Street and West Street pedestrianised.

President of Dorking Chamber of Commerce Caroline Salmon, one of the organisers of Gala Night, said: "It's seen as the start of Christmas trading and it's really good fun.

"We have again booked the impressive fire act who I'm sure will be wearing a different outfit as always and we also have the snow machine. It's also nice to have a Father Christmas which we haven't had before."

Reindeer are returning to Dorking for their traditional yearly visit (Image: Mole Valley District Council)

Mrs Salmon explained that jewellers Scott's of Dorking sponsored the reindeer for the event after there were previous concerns over funding.

She added that all stall positions have now been filled and is looking forward to another festive period in the town.

She said: "We just hope the weather holds off and the only snow we see is the one from the machine."

Councillor Simon Edge, executive member for economic development and Transform Leatherhead at MVDC, said: "This year's Gala Night on December 7 is set to be Dorking's biggest ever.

The crowds at Dorking Gala Night 2016 (Image: Grant Melton)

"Last year’s Gala Night saw thousands of local people soak up the festive atmosphere on the pedestrianised High Street whilst choosing Christmas gifts for friends and family.

"The real reindeer were a huge hit with the children, as was the fire performer and the fabulous dance displays from local schools, not to mention the snow machine."